As one way of commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disability, The Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA) hosted a series of inclusive sporting activities at its Kamuzu Vocational Rehabilitation and Training Centre (KVRTC) in Magomero, Chiradzulu, setting a shining example for other organizations.
The event showcased a variety of inclusive sports, including goalball, netball, football, sack races, tug-of-war, and athletics (sprints). Key figures in attendance included Director General of MACODA, Mr. George Chiusiwa; Professor Mufunanji Magalasi from the University of Malawi; Jessica Noske-Turner, Senior Lecturer in the Institute for Creative Futures at Loughborough University London; and Ruth Nkhonjera from Nico Company
In his address, Mr. Chiusiwa urged the students to prioritize self-care, personal safety, and academic excellence. He emphasized that hard work and dedication can lead to success, citing his own journey and the paths of other guests present. Chiusiwa further asserted, "Youths are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but of today." He concluded by announcing that MACODA would incorporate these sporting activities into its annual calendar of events, with the possibility of hosting them twice a year.
Professor Magalasi, in his remarks, emphasized the role of sports in national development and the importance of inclusive participation. He stated, "Sports are part of national development hence the need to be participated by everyone including people with disabilities." He also highlighted the University of Malawi's commitment to using research to challenge societal perceptions of disability.
The event also spotlighted Ishah Saladi, a gifted netball player with a hearing impairment from Mpalankhanga Secondary School who demonstrated her exceptional abilities on the court, exceeding expectations and beaming with pride. "I felt good to have played with people without disability simply because when I play with fellows with disabilities I feel sidelined," Saladi said, revealing her aspirations to take her talents to the next level and join the esteemed Malawi national netball team, The Queens.
The day concluded with an awards ceremony, where outstanding participants were honoured with medals. The ceremony celebrated their hard work, teamwork, and commitment to excellence, reinforcing the spirit of inclusion and motivation for future participation.
MACODA's successful hosting of these inclusive sporting activities serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with dedication and a focus on inclusivity, we can create a society where everyone has the opportunity to participate and thrive.